Hull Collegiate School

Tranby School, located in Anlaby, Hull, is an independent co-educational day school that caters to students aged three to eighteen. The school, which was formerly known as Hull Collegiate College until its rebranding in September 2021, is part of the United Learning group and operates under the United Church Schools Trust. The school aims to provide an ambitious education that nurtures curiosity and a passion for learning while fostering confidence, independence, and compassion within a caring and inclusive environment.

The recent inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate from October 17 to October 19, 2023, evaluated the school’s adherence to the statutory Independent School Standards. The inspection team comprised five inspectors who engaged in various activities, including discussions with staff, leadership, and pupils, as well as observations of teaching and learning across all year groups. The findings indicate that the school meets all relevant standards across various domains, including leadership and management, quality of education, pupils' physical and mental health, social and economic education, and safeguarding.

The leadership and management at Tranby School are characterized by a collaborative approach among the proprietorial body, governors, and school leaders. They prioritize the well-being of pupils and employ effective self-evaluation in their strategic planning. The school’s leadership team is generally effective in fulfilling their roles, and the oversight provided by local governors is methodical. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the monitoring of policies, such as the safeguarding policy, which had some inaccuracies that were rectified during the inspection.

In terms of educational quality, the curriculum is designed to be age-appropriate and responsive to the needs of pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The school has a comprehensive assessment framework in place, although the implementation of this framework varies among teachers, impacting the consistency of pupil outcomes. Most pupils make good progress relative to their starting points, and the school provides a broad range of subjects and experiences that contribute to both academic and personal development.

Pupils at Tranby School demonstrate well-developed skills in mathematics and science, and they are proficient in using technology to enhance their learning. The school promotes a strong sense of community, which is reflected in the positive relationships between pupils and staff. The pastoral system is effective, ensuring that pupils feel safe and supported. The school has implemented a range of strategies to promote good behavior, although there are inconsistencies in the application of behavior management strategies that can lead to confusion among pupils.

The school places a strong emphasis on the physical and mental well-being of its pupils. The personal, social, health, and economic education (PSHE) program is comprehensive and includes appropriate provisions for relationships and sex education. Pupils are encouraged to engage in physical education, which supports their physical development and understanding of the importance of exercise for overall health. The school also provides various activities aimed at promoting mental well-being, such as mindfulness and creative clubs.

In terms of social and economic education, the school actively promotes respect for others and encourages pupils to engage in activities that foster social skills and cooperation. The curriculum includes opportunities for pupils to explore cultural differences and develop an appreciation for diversity. Pupils are involved in various charitable activities and fundraising initiatives, which help them develop compassion and a sense of responsibility towards others.

Safeguarding is a key priority at Tranby School, with suitable arrangements in place to promote the welfare of pupils. Staff receive regular training in safeguarding practices, and there are effective systems for reporting concerns. Pupils are aware of how to stay safe and know whom to approach if they have worries. The school has established mechanisms for anonymous reporting, which further supports pupil well-being.

Overall, the inspection findings highlight that Tranby School is successful in providing a supportive and enriching educational environment. The school meets all relevant standards and demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement. The leadership team is encouraged to enhance the consistency of teaching practices and the application of behavior management strategies to further support pupil progress and well-being. The school’s focus on nurturing the potential of each pupil, combined with its inclusive ethos, positions it well for future success.